Sorry, The Libertine closed on 03 Dec 2016

About the show

Dominic Cooper stars as the decadent Earl of Rochester in Stephen Jeffrey’s sexually-charged play, The Libertine. Set in 1670s London, The Libertine offers an incisive critique of the age of excess.

First performed on tour and at the Royal Court, The Libertine follows the true story of insatiable hedonist John Wilmot, the second Earl of Rochester. A charismatic poet and playwright, Wilmot was notorious for leading a life of love, lust and pure debauchery. On a chance encounter with an actress at the Playhouse Theatre, Wilmot is forced to rethink everything he has ever believed in. A romp through the wild Restoration period, The Libertine is full of flair and wit, and promises to be an entertaining production.

The Libertine has previously been made into a 2004 film adaptation, with Dominic Cooper following in the footsteps of acting legend Johnny Depp. Cooper made his name starring in the stage and screen versions of The History Boys, as well as featuring in the National Theatre’s Mother Clap’s Molly House and Phèdre, playing opposite Helen Mirren. His extensive film credits include Mamma Mia, The Duchess, My Week with Marilyn and Captain America: The First Avenger.

Ophelia Lovibond appears alongside Dominic Cooper playing Elizabeth Barry. Many fans will recognise her from the 2014 Hollywood film Guardians of the Galaxy and her part in the BBC satire W1A. She has also recently appeared on stage in The Effect by Lucy Prebble at Sheffield Crucible. Mark Hadfield also plays Etheridge, having recently appeared in Mrs Henderson Presents, Richard III and The Painkiller.

Cooper is directed by Olivier and Tony Award-winning Terry Johnson, who has received accolades for directing the musical La Cage Aux Folles. Additional credits include The Graduate and One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest. The Libertine opened on September 22nd at the Theatre Royal Haymarket, and will play until December 3rd 2016.

Who Should See It?

The Libertine is full of adult content and themes and is therefore suitable for ages 15 and up.

Dominic Cooper fans will love seeing him as the wickedly charming rogue, John Wilmot - a far cry from his Mamma Mia days!